Monday, September 30, 2013

SodaStream Giveaway!


Hosted by 
Co-Hosted by:
One lucky winner will win
"Soda Stream Revolution Black Starter Kit" 
Value $199  
We'd all probably want one of these right? So, let's get this giveaway started!
Details:
September 30 to October 21
US Residents only
All entries are optional
Good luck everyone!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: Great Products! Great Reviews! is not responsible for the awarding of the prize. Sponsor is responsible for prize fulfillment.  If you have any questions about this giveaway, please email the host at nysavingspecials@gmail.com

Balboa Baby CarSeat Cover Giveaway!

 
Balboa Baby
We all know that babies attract people. Especially their dirty hands. Whoever came up with this idea, definitely gets a fist bump from me. I love the idea that Car Seat Canopies keep your little one safe from hands and weather elements especially during flu season! Eww.. Balboa baby makes really cute reversible car seat canopy's that will fit anyone's styling needs.
2521-large
The canopy is also reversible!
2013447_CSC_RETRO_FLOWER_REVERSE1
The Balboa car seat canopy has some great features!
~Reversible design in two unique prints
~Velcro tab closures for a universal fit
~Can also be used as a colorful playmat or blanket
~Machine washable & dryable
~Easy to reverse
~Keeps the sun out & protects from the elements
~Additional prints available on-line
Car Seat Canopy measures 42” x 31”
Fabric: 65% Polyester & 35 % Cotton
Balboa makes 5 different designs and which are all adorable by the way!
balboa baby babydashco.com
About Balboa Baby:
Shirley Pepys, founder of Noel Joanna Inc. (NoJo) and her son Noel Pepys have teamed up with Dr. William Sears, best known as “America’s Pediatrician,” to create fashionable and functional products to make life simpler for parents and better for babies. Balboa Baby® designs contemporary, unique products using luxurious fabrics and distinctive prints. We will continue to find innovative ways to make parents’ lives easier, their babies happier and to give them both opportunities to bond and experience life together. Cuddle your baby.
So...Who wants to win this one? It seems really cool & would be a great gift!
2521-large
Enter Below to win!
Hosted by BabyDashCo
Starts Sept 30th & ends October 14th!
Good Luck Everyone!

Saturday, September 28, 2013

Purex Ultrapacks Plus Oxi Review & Giveaway

Hi everyone! I'm back with another review & giveaway. This is in fact sponsored by Purex. Yes, I was sent a free package of Purex Ultrapacks Plus Oxi to review and I was also sent the three free coupons I'm going to give away below. The opinions expressed below are 100% mine and 100% honest. I wouldn't write something I don't believe in. Also, I was not obligated to write a positive review and I would never accept anything that requires me to. Now, let's start!

My Review

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

For The Gourmet Gluten-Free Giveaway Event

Welcome to the For The Gourmet Gluten-Free Giveaway Event!

For The Gourmet Gluten-Free Giveaway Event

For The Gourmet is a Chef-driven, Chef operated company that was founded on the premise that outstanding foods begins with outstanding ingredients. In 2002, while working as Executive Chefs in various establishments across the country, it became apparent that depending on where they were, they may or may not have access to certain quality ingredients needed for the recipes they were creating. In response, those chefs created Food Innovations which still services many of the top well known chefs, restaurants and establishments in the country. After being contacted by many home foodies and gourmands they created For The Gourmet. For The Gourmet offers the finest ingredients and kitchen accessories available on a single site. You can find top notch meats, cheeses, cookware and more all in once place. They offer a variety of fresh produce, proteins, gourmet prepared foods, and specialty ingredients.

They also recognize the growing need for quality products for those on gluten-free and specialty diets and a have a category of delicious foods devoted to just those needs. You'll find quality brands like Schar, euforia, The Cravings Place, and more! 
There are so many different things that you can find on there and I want to go try some new brands soon as well!

We are pleased to be able to help spread the word about these great offerings by hosting a giveaway where THREE lucky winners will each a receive an awesome Gluten-Free Variety Pack by Schar, courtesy of For The Gourmet!
To enter, use the Rafflecopter below.
This giveaway is open to US Residents aged 18 and over.
Void where prohibited.
Giveaway will end on October 9, 2013 at 11:59pm est.

Disclosure - This blog received no compensation for this post and is not responsible for prize shipment. This post contains affiliate links (not mine). Any questions should be directed to mendyboyd@yahoo.com

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Post Summer Recovery Kit Giveaway Event!

Make Our Own Network
Prize Sponsors Include:
Fysiko (Monica's RRR)
Zaggora (Tyrneathem Review)
Maggie Bags (Savory Savings Review) 
Toe Juice (A.L.L. Review)
ResVitale (A.L.L. Review)
Mavea (Savory Savings Review)
Aunt Mae's Homemade Soaps (A.L.L. Review)
ARV $484

These prizes are AWESOME!! Good luck everyone!

Cassani Fogless Shower Mirror Review


Hi! Welcome to another sponsored review. This time, it's sponsored by the Cassani company. I received this fogless shower mirror for free in exchange for a product review. Nevertheless, my opinions are 100% my own and are completely honest. Your opinions may differ from mine. We're all different after all.

First, a little about the Cassani company (This information comes straight from their website). They are a supplier of home & lifestyle products and in the past, their products have mainly been distributed in Europe and Asia. Their products help you save time, are high-quality, and are designed to help you improve your daily tasks and lifestyle. 

Now, my review of the fogless shower mirror. This is a stock photo of what it looks like.


New Mommy Giveaway Event!

Welcome to the New Mommy Prize Pack Giveaway

Sponsored by:

Hosted by: Baby Costcutters, Great Products! Great Reviews!, and a fabulous group of bloggers.
Read Baby Costcutters' review on these awesome prizes here.

This is a really nice prize pack if you are expecting or know someone who is. I definitely want to try myself for my niece who's expecting in November!

About Our Prizes:
The new Wipebox by UberMom is a super-convenient and inexpensive travel-size wipe container -- equal parts stylish and durable. Featuring a bright and colorful European-inspired design with whimsical bold graphics, this reusable container is the perfect "accessory" to compliment your diaper bag. rv $6.99
The Angelcare Bath Support can be placed directly into the bathtub for easy use. The ergonomic design offers baby a comfortable place to recline, relax and enjoy—and it offers parents peace of mind knowing that baby is secure. The soft porous-rubber material helps protect baby’s delicate skin, and because the unit drains easily and dries quickly, it’s hygienic, too. rv $29.99
Bobbee Sleep with Me is a cuddly 2-in-1 plush bear that features an insertable electronic rattle that gently emits a glowing light and soothing melodies to comfort baby during sleep time. The owl shaped rattle, with superior sound effects can be used during playtime and go into Bobbee's backpack for traveling on the go. Little one's can press Bobbee's tummy and enjoy the soothing melodies and glowing mood light. Whether its day or night, Bobbee is the perfect cuddle cub. Recommended for ages 0 months+. rv$30
Unlock the door to safe, eco-friendly teething for your baby with the Green Toys™ First Keys. Made in the USA from food-safe, 100% recycled plastic milk jugs that save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the four colorful pieces swing freely on the lightweight ring, allowing little ones to easily grasp, shake, and explore different shapes, colors, and textures. With rounded edges and no external coatings, this is one set of keys parents can feel good about handing over. No BPA, phthalates, or PVC, and also meets FDA food contact standards. Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. Recommended for ages 0+ months. rv $7.99
We will have TWO Winners!
1st Prize Winner: (1) Bobbee Bear, (1) Green Toys My First Keys, (1) Angelcare Bath Tub Support, and (1) Wipebox by UberMom
2nd Prize Winner: (1) Bobbee Bear, (1) Green Toys My First Keys and (1) Wipebox by UberMom

You can also enter the Baby Necessities Giveaway to enter to win more baby items!
To enter to win just use the form below to enter. Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: Ends Oct. 2, 2013 at 11:59pm est. This event was organized by Branch Pro Promotions, LLC please contact Tina at branchpropromotions@gmail.com with questions or to see your business or blog featured on the next big event! The participating bloggers were not compensated for this post. We are not associated with any of the companies named above. No purchase is necessary to enter. Void where prohibited by law. The odds of winning are based on the number of entries received Open to the US only, 18+ only. Confirmed Winner(s) (by Random.org) will be contacted by email. Winner(s) have 24 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. The sponsor(s) will be responsible for product shipment to winner(s) of this giveaway. My blog is not responsible for product shipment/delivery. This event is in no way administered, sponsored, or endorsed by, or associated with, Facebook and/or Twitter, Google, Pinterest. This disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements. Entrants must only enter with either one email address, IP address and/or Facebook account, anyone found violating these rules will be disqualified. It is at the sole discretion of the admin of the giveaway if the winner has met the rules or not.

Make Time For Mom Giveaway Event!

Welcome to the Make Time For Mom Giveaway




One Lucky Winner will receive a
Classic Yoga mat from Aurora Yoga (ARV $54.95), a $50 Gift Code to FragranceNet.com and a pair of shoes (winner's choice) from Victoria Footwear USA (ARV$60)

Great Products! Great Reviews! has teamed up with Southern Mom Media and Down South Savings to bring you this great event. 

All too often, we as women tend to neglect ourselves. Always putting our family first and never making time for us. We wanted to give you a little help in pampering you for a change! We have teamed up with some fabulous sponsors to bring you this awesome giveaway!

The prizes are really awesome, so go enter! Trust me, you deserve it!

Make a little time for YOU with this awesome Classic Yoga Mat from Aurorae Yoga
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 There is so much you can purchase from FragranceNet.com with $50 like this Cool Water Perfume by Davidoff gift set..



COOL WATER Perfume by Davidoff


Or this Green Tea Set by Elizabeth Arden

GREEN TEA Perfume by Elizabeth Arden

Winner will also receive a pair of shoes from their choice from Victoria Footwear USA. They have several varieties and colors to choose from!


To Enter, Simply complete the Rafflecopter form below. 

Giveaway ends 9/26/13 at 12:01 am EST. 
Giveaway open to US residents only, ages 18+. 
Void where prohibited. 
All claimed entries will be verified so please be honest!

Other than that, good luck everybody!



Let Southern Mom Media host your next big event! Contact us at southernmommedia@yahoo.com

Disclosure: Great Products! Great Reviews! was not compensated for this publication nor are we responsible for sponsor prize fulfillment. Any questions about this event should be emailed to April at downsouthsavings@yahoo.com



Monday, September 16, 2013

Cook Up A Win Giveaway Event!

Make Our Own Network
Prize:
ARV $387
Hosted by:
A Ladybug on the Go
and 
M.O.O.N.
This looks like a really cool prize! Good luck everyone!

Safety 1st Car Seat Giveaway!

Did you know that car crashes are the leading cause of death for children age 1 through 12 years old? Studies have shown that approximately 7 out of 10 car safety seats are improperly installed, resulting in more than *260,000 deaths and more than 10 million injuries, worldwide. These statistics are scary, but there is something we can do. By having your car seat professionally inspected, you can reduce the risk of fatality for your child, simply by having it properly installed. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has locations nationwide that will inspect your child's safety seat for free {in most cases, call to make sure}. For a list of locations to get your car seat inspected, visit their website

I am excited to be partnering with the amazing folks at Safety 1st to bring you this "Winners Choice" car safety seat giveaway. The winner can choose from the three following styles, depending on their specific needs.
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the goal of Child Passenger Safety week is to make sure all parents and caregivers are properly securing their children (ages 0-12) in the best car restraint (rear-facing, forward-facing, booster, seat belt) for their age and size.

In celebration of Child passenger Safety Week, the nice folks over at Safety 1st are generously giving away a car seat to one lucky reader!

For a complete list of available prizes, check out Niki’s full post over on her blog, Adventures of a Midlife Mommy.

Just enter through the Rafflecopter form below! Good luck everyone!

DISCLAIMER: I was not compensated for this post either monetarily or with free product. I am hosting this giveaway free of charge, because I believe in child safety. Sponsor is responsible for prize shipment. Want Southern Mom Media to host your next event? Contact: SouthernMomMedia@yahoo.com

Sunday, September 15, 2013

Thinking over everything we've done in the past few weeks, I'm a little worried that we really might become a blog that only wants money and free things. I'm especially worried since we did sign up for an affiliate network and sponsored tweets to help pay for anything blog-related (self-hosted giveaways, non-sponsored reviews, etc). Well, if you feel like any of those people in that post on GOMI, let us know. We'll carefully think about it and definitely slow it down, so that there isn't too much of that going on. So far, we've been doing a lot of sponsored reviews as well, but that will slowly taper off I believe. Anyway, like I wrote in the previous 'Update' post, we will work hard to make this blog a success, but also interesting and helpful. Please continue to read our blog and thank you for reading this.

Friday, September 13, 2013

Update

Hi everyone! Quick little update. Because school has started (I'm a teacher and Cheryl is a student), we don't have as much time to promote on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and actually write posts, so please bear with us. We will try our best to write as often as we can, but there won't be too many posts until school finishes. Thank you for reading this!

Update: Also, I just want you all to know that we do still have sponsored reviews lined up. One of them happens to be quite an expensive item that I will receive for free in exchange for a review. I will still write a completely honest review on it, but whether or not you believe me is your choice. I just wanted to let you know now. I'll try not to be like a blogger that only cares about free stuff and not enough about the actual review, I promise :).

*confession time* Not that I don't like free things. It's true, I do (I'm sorry, but it really is true), but at the same time, I'm working for it since each review takes me hours to write & revise/edit (and days/weeks to test). A lot of my time & care goes into writing each one, so that it shows most of what you would want to know about it and hopefully helps you out if you ever wanted to buy it. If that made sense :). *end confession*
I do write reviews because I find it somewhat fun to do and I like to help people out a lot. I enjoy helping others to find a good, effective product to try, so I will always write an honest review. If I don't like it, I will be very blunt (like the Pine Bros Cough Drops, it was an earlier review and I didn't know how things worked in the blogger community back then. Apparently, you should tell the company if you are writing a negative review... I had no clue back then, but I'm still keeping it up because it's what I felt about it.) and if I do like it, well, I would recommend it and probably sing praises about it :).

Anyway, currently, we do have a lot of sponsored reviews to go through. After they are all written, it'll probably be more like usual, a few sponsored & a few non-sponsored all mixed in. I hope you all will still enjoy our blog!

*I'm sorry if this post didn't make that much sense, but they are my honest thoughts. Thank you for reading our blog. I am very grateful to all of you and eventually (maybe when I hit, say, 5,000 fans on Facebook or maybe 3,000 visits a month) I want to host a big giveaway to show my appreciation to all of you. Somewhat like the $100 Blogiversary giveaway we hosted this year. Point is, thank you all. Really, thank you.

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Ageless Derma Anti-Aging Intensive Skin Brightener Review

Hi everyone! Yes, this is a sponsored post. This time, Ageless Derma sent me their anti-aging intensive skin brightener to try out. I received the product I'm going to mention below for free in exchange for an honest review. Yes, this is honest. I'm under no obligation to write a positive review and I wouldn't accept a job that entitles that I must write a positive review. 

A little info about the brightener: This skin brightener is designed to provide "fast, gentle, and effective skin lightening for your skin." It's supposed to work on freckles, age spots, brown spots, and more. For more information, click here.
The review:
First of all, this is what it looks like straight from the container. It's a light beige color and is very smooth.

Monday, September 9, 2013

Coach Handbag Giveaway (Sept. 2013)

Coach Handbag Giveaway

Welcome to the Coach Handbag Giveaway!

Yay! Another Coach bag giveaway! This should be fun :)

Hosted by
We appreciate our fans, and to show you how much we appreciate you I have joined Jenns Blah Blah Blog for another fan appreciation giveaway. We do a Coach Handbag Giveaway ever single month just for our readers!

Special thanks to the our co-hosts for helping make this giveaway possible Pink Ninja Media, Pink Ninja Blogger, Simply Shawn N Jenn, Coupon Hauls, Just Free Stuff, Southern Rambles, Made by Jess, Mama's Mission, Thrifty 4NSIC Gal, What's Up Giveaways, Ramblings of Mama, Moms Vacation Spots, as well as all the bloggers that are not listed.

About the Coach Handbag: Coach Signature Nylon Weekender 
~Signature nylon fabric with patent fabric trim 
~Removable snap multifunction pocket 
~Tote can be stores inside multifunction pocket for compact storage 
~Zip-top closure Handles with 10” drop 20 2/4” (L) x 11 1/4 “ (H) x 7 ¼” (W)

One very lucky person will win their own Coach Signature Nylon Weekender.
Giveaway will run until 10/11/2013 11:59pm EST
It is open WW
You must be 18 + to enter
Enter using the Giveaway Tools widget below.
Good Luck everyone!

Disclosure:
I have not been compensated for this post. All opinions and experiences are my own. Open Worldwide, must be 18+. Confirmed Winner(s) will be contacted by email and have 48 hours to respond before a new winner will be drawn. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. The sponsor(s), Jenns Blah Blah Blog will be responsible for prize fulfillment. My blog is not responsible for prize fulfillment. The sponsor of this event will be responsible for fulfillment of prize (Jenns Blah Blah Blog). This even is in no way associated with, sponsored, administered, or endorsed by Facebook, Twitter, Google, Pinterest or any other social media network. The disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
If you have questions about this giveaway please feel free to contact jenn from Jenns Blah Blah Blog via jenn@jennsblahblahblog.com.

Sunday, September 8, 2013

Diamond Candles Review & Giveaway

Hi everyone! This is in fact another sponsored review & giveaway. I know that I've been posting a lot of them recently, I really do, but I still don't know what to review for the non-sponsored review. I really want to do one soon, though.
Anyway, I received a Diamond Candle for free in exchange for a review, but despite this, my opinions are 100% mine & honest. Your opinions may differ from mine. I am under absolutely no obligation to write a positive review and I definitely wouldn't accept a review request that required me to.

Now, let's get started!

I was extremely excited to review Diamond Candles. I've seen plenty of reviews & giveaways from other bloggers and I've purchased one myself (the cinnamon roll one) in the past. For those of you who don't know what Diamond Candles are, they are a company that makes all natural soy candles and inside each of those candles, there's a ring! So, not only do you get a candle that has a nice scent, you also get a piece of jewelry to keep even after the candle's completely burned down! And, it also makes a nice gift! You can see some more information about them here and in the video below.
Now the actual review!
The first thing I noticed was the good protective packaging. It was within a cardboard box and had paper wrapped around it. I appreciated that they took these measures to make sure that my candle wasn't damaged.

Saturday, September 7, 2013

Remedy Skincare Review & Giveaway (2 Winners!)

Hi everyone! Yes, I'm back with another sponsored review & giveaway. This time, Remedy Skincare has kindly provided me 3 products to review and 2 packages of the same products to give away to 2 of my readers.
I received the products mentioned below for free in exchange for a review. Regardless, my opinions are 100% mine and completely honest. Your opinions may differ from mine. We're all different after all. I'm under no obligation to write a positive review and I wouldn't accept a request that required me to. Now, let's get started!

About Remedy Skincare:







Remedy Advanced Skincare is a skincare line for all types of skin. They are formulated with antioxidants, vitamins, and amino acids to nourish the skin. It was actually first developed to soothe and relieve skin irritations from cancer treatments, but now, it's widely used in healthcare facilities throughout the US and of course, in many homes. It's also pH-balanced, non-cytotoxic, non-sensitizing, non-irritating, and non-allergenic. You can see some more information here.

About their Phytoplex line:

I received products from their phytoplex line and here's some information on it. It's made for people with sensitive skin and uses all-natural ingredients derived from plants and marine life. It's free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates and aloe. You can see some more information from that link above.


Review:

Thursday, September 5, 2013

Share the Planet Giveaway!

Make Our Own Network
Prize:
16" Earth Ball (A.L.L. Review)
+
Winner School of Choice will receive a
1 Meter Earth Ball
ARV $143 Total
Hosted by:
 "EarthBalls are used daily for educating students from preschools to universities. As a tactile and visual classroom aid, EarthBalls enhance the teaching of both natural and social sciences.  Featuring the latest generation of NASA satellite imagery, EarthBalls are the most visually authentic world globes available anywhere."

This is one wacky/unique prize isn't it? Well, I'm sure a school near you would be happy to use them and they sure look fun. Good luck everyone!

**If you are a company and would like to see your brand advertised in a M.O.O.N. event similar to this please contact MakeOurOwnNetwork@gmail.com
This giveaway is open to the Continental US only (because of shipping costs) and will end on September 19th, 2013

a Rafflecopter giveaway

"Make Our Own Network" solely organized this event and I received no compensation for this publication. My opinions are 100% my own and may differ from your own or even those stated in this post. Great Products! Great Reviews! is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment.

Wednesday, September 4, 2013

[IMPORTANT] Manuka Honey Fraud

Hi everyone, this is not a review, obviously.

Today, I'm going to be writing about a manuka honey fraud that was reported in the UK's Sunday Times & New Zealand Herald on August 25, 2013 (Yes, I'm a bit late at this. Sorry.). You can read it here.

First, the articles. You can read the full article through the link, but I'm just going to paraphrase it below (it will be italicized):

According to the articles, manuka honey is currently in the middle of an international food fraud investigation, and there is quite a bit of evidence showing that much of what is being sold is fake. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) issued a nationwide warning to trading standards departments to ask them to watch out for honey that is labelled as 'manuka', but comes from different sources. 
The Food and Environment Research Agency (Fera), the Environment and Food Ministry, and other departments (including departments overseas) performed tests and found that much of the honey that is labelled as 'manuka' isn't any different from regular honey besides the price. Also, the main honey producers' organization in New Zealand, where almost all of the world's manuka honey comes from (the real honey, not the fake honey), did some research and found that about 1,700 tons of manuka is produced there per year, but 1,800 tons of "manuka" honey is sold in just the UK. About 10,000 tons are sold worldwide. So, you can see that the fraud seems to be quite widespread. John Rawcliffe of the Unique Manuka Factor Honey Association (UMFHA), which represents the New Zealand producers, said, "There is potentially huge fraud. There are higher and ever-increasing volumes of honey labelled as manuka that are not manuka. More manuka is sold in the UK alone than the total actually produced. The same applies to China, America, and so on."

By now, some of you may wonder why it's so special, how it's produced, among some other things and I'm going to answer those questions right now.

How it's produced & why it's special:

Manuka honey is produced by bees who live in hives that are near flowering wild manuka bushes that grow mostly on New Zealand's North Island. Before 1981, manuka honey was considered a low-grade honey and was used in cattle feed, but then, a New Zealand scientist found that it had anti-microbial properties. 

Some more tests:

This anti-microbial property soon became a way of testing if the honey was true manuka honey, and in Oct. 2011, Fera tested 5 brands of manuka honey sold in the UK for the "non-peroxide" anti-microbial activity that genuine manuka honey has. The result of the test was that only 1 showed that property. They carried out more tests and found that out of 23 manuka-labelled honeys, 11 failed the test. After that, UMFHA performed more tests in 2012 & 2013 in Britain, China, and Singapore and out of 73 samples, 41 didn't show the non-peroxide activity. And in another test in Hong Kong, out of 55 samples, 14 had syrup added into it.

Benefits of manuka honey:

Sterilized manuka honey has been shown to help skin heal when used to dress your wounds, but there is no clinical evidence that eating it aids your health. Despite all of that, it is very popular, thanks to smart marketing and celebrities. 

How could this fraud happen?:

Because of the success manuka honey has had, many New Zealand honey farmers use helicopters to find the bushes and hurry to go put their hives there. There is a lot of competition for the best spots. Other plants also grow with manuka and bees also go to them too, so there really isn't a way to truly know how pure the manuka honey really is. "Such problems provide opportunities for fraudsters and undermine public trust in genuine producers. Patrick Robinson, chairman of the British Honey Importers and Packers Association and operations director at Rowse Honey, the UK's largest honey producer, agreed that manuka authenticity was a concern, 'Every batch of our honey is tested and labelled properly,' he said." Also, critics say that labeling is another part of the industry that is making problems for consumers.  There isn't an agreed standard, so there is at least four complex systems for describing the honey's anti-microbial potency which is quite confusing.

So, what can you do if you want to get some manuka honey?
Here are some tips from The New Zealand Honey Shop.
1. Not all Manuka Honey is the same!
2. Don't be confused by the number on the jar. It is more important to know what each company is really measuring.
3. 'TA' or 'total activity' based brands measure the hydrogen peroxide activity. That's common to all types of honey and isn't stable, so it could lessen while the jars are on the shelf.
4. The reputation or supporting research behind manuka honey is based on that special anti-bacterial property I talked about before.
5. A 'TA' honey can't really be compared to a genuine UMF® certified jar. They are different.
You can see more info here.




What is the UMF® certification/What is UMF®?
"[...] some manuka honey (and only some) also contains a non-peroxide antibacterial property, what has been named  the ‘unique manuka factor’ (UMF). It is the UMF that creates the special properties, including the extra antibacterial and antibiotic properties, that is found in only some manuka honey, as the UMF is not affected by the other enzymes, and is much more stable and active in a variety of conditions. To find the existence of UMF in manuka honey, it needs to be tested for its level of non-peroxide antibacterial activity. This test should be done by an independent laboratory for each batch of honey." (The New Zealand Honey Shop)

How do you know if they are UMF® certified?
1. It has the name UMF® clearly stated on the front label.
2. It is packed into jars and labelled in New Zealand.
3. It is from a New Zealand company licensed to use the name UMF.
4. It has the UMF licensee’s name on the front label.
5. It has a rating of UMF5 or more.


If you still want more information, click here to check out their pamphlet.
Feel free to contact me if the link doesn't work.

In case you just decided to skip down here (I know, I know, there's a lot to read), the main point is this.
There seems to be a huge fraud in selling genuine manuka honey worldwide currently. 
Most people that are buying manuka honey expect to receive something unique compared to other honeys. That something unique is the 'non-peroxide' anti-bacterial activity that the research behind manuka is based on. 
The 'peroxide' activity is common to all kinds of honey (including manuka), but it isn't stable, so it naturally disappears from the honey. 
If you really want to be sure that you are getting genuine manuka honey, check for the UMF® quality mark which rates the honey based on the level of non-peroxide activity. It checks for a lot more behind the scenes, such as how much the honey has been heated in processing, adulteration, etc. Genuine manuka honey doesn't have to have the UMF® mark, but it's a good indicator of quality.

I hope this was informative. Feel free to comment or contact me if anything doesn't make sense, or simply go to the links to see for yourself.
I have some reviews lined up, so look forward to that!
Bye!

Snikiddy Snacks Review

Hi everyone! Welcome to another sponsored review. This time, I'm going to be reviewing Snikiddy Snacks.
The first thing I want to say is that I received a coupon that allowed me to get 2 bags for free in exchange for a blog review. Nevertheless, my opinions are 100% honest and my own. Your opinions may differ from mine. We all have different tastes, so it's going to happen. I was under no obligation to write a positive review and I definitely wouldn't accept something that required me to.

Now that we've established that, let's get started.

About the company:
Snikiddy Logo
Snikiddy was founded by Mary Schulman and her mother in 2006. It is a company that makes healthier, more wholesome snacks for everyone out there. The name is a shortened version of the word persnickety, meaning picky, since growing up, Mary's mom & her siblings were known as the Snikiddy kids because they had healthy lunches. Because of these lunches, a teacher once called them persnickety and the kids simplified it into snikiddy, which stuck.
You can find some more information here.

Monday, September 2, 2013

Trending Authors of Summer iPad Mini Event!

When it comes to summer reading indie authors offer a refreshing alternative to predictable plots from big name writers. Here’s a list of ten titles from trending indie authors, pick your favorite and vote on Facebook. There seems to be a book for everyone! So, check them out and who knows, maybe you'll find a new favorite author!

In a time of uncertainty, Nova Rose created a fantasy epic of high adventure spanning 1500 years with its unique mythology and characters--of which Galdin is the final book--where the lowliest of people overcome impossible odds to save the land they love. 

Reviewer Comments
This book had me hooked right from the beginning and kept me going through to the end. You find yourself quickly immersed in an intense new world and the characters are both compelling, identifiable, fresh, interesting, and mysterious enough to keep your attention. The plot is exciting and does a good job of creating an intricate believable world while keeping up the action. Very well crafted story.

Be sure to follow the author on Facebook and Twitter to keep up with the latest publications.

Special Price Cut Book was $5.49 and is now available for $0.99


A top-ranked Amazon thriller sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. 

More About The Book 
A fast-paced thriller centered on a brutal, time-obsessed serial killer. The expression "killing time" rarely means murder, but here, the victims of a serial killer must pay for time they've wasted, often with both their money and their lives. In a brutal scene from the opening chapter, an entire family is murdered after a stranger invades the family's home and accuses the patriarch of wasting his time. Veteran cop Max Larkin is on the case. Unfortunately, he's also been assigned a new partner; though she's green in the field--she has "very sad eyes" and prays upon arriving at the first crime scene--she gives the hardened old detective a new perspective he never knew he needed. But as the serial killer claims more victims, a pattern emerges that neither Max nor his new partner can ignore. With brisk pacing, Thiede's debut brims with action, violence and, occasionally, emotion. Though the book takes a while to find its heart, procedural fans will feel right at home. Larkin feels like a guy worth rooting for, despite filling the shoes of the beaten-down, grizzled, old loner cop trope a little too well. His interactions with his new partner, plus the twists and revelations regarding his past, give him enough of a pass to get readers invested in the story and looking forward to his next outing. Larkin's story doesn't break any boundaries, but it'll keep crime and thriller fans wrapped up in its twisting plot, fast pace and memorable detective. Plenty of shock value and a charismatic, if formulaic, male lead. - Kirkus Reviews

Read more about the book on Amazon and Barnes & Noble


Lee Fishman has written an action-packed thriller that's a story for our times, a story of America the hard way! 
More About The Book
What’s it like to be on your own in a new country? While Rija, a young wife and mother, confronts the challenges of her new life in America with gritty determination, her husband, the charming Josef, takes off. Falling into a life of crime, he hooks up with the Russian mafia and turns up with piles of cash and trouble at just the wrong time. The action starts early and keeps building. This is a great beach read!


If you don't like just plain old vanilla and want something different, read, Reluctant Gods III - Reset from the series that transcends fiction fantasy by crossing genres into romance, humor, science fiction, and mystery and is sure to entertain while you enjoy the best of summer.

Reviewer Comments
I loved Reluctant Gods III-Reset! As a science fiction fan, I couldn't have asked for more. It covers so much of what I enjoy reading about, with a story that keeps you interested through the end. My husband didn't want to read it by the description at first, but I urged him to just try it. It's now one of his favorites! He's even gone back and read the first two in the series, although you can keep up even if you haven't. I did read them first and am glad I did. Personally, I like to know the in's and out's of the stories that I read, so I just had to read the others first. - 5 Star Amazon Review


Slum is a page-turner that's been called an intoxicating love story and a tale of hope for a dying child, played out by a wealthy New Yorker and a poor ex-stripper from a Caribbean slum. 

Reviewer Comments
From Clarion Reviews: "Enticingly entertaining... Julianna and Robert are well-drawn, credible characters... descriptions of the slum are evocative, realistic, and insightful... safe to assume that the realism in the novel emanates from Dan Carroll's firsthand knowledge and experiences in the slums."

Special Price Cut .99 cents on Kindle, iBookstore, Nook 


“Powerful novel … extraordinary magic in making his readers as eager as his protagonist in uncovering the truth and thus effectively creating pervasive fear and suspense … sure to keep you up late against your better judgment - don't say I didn't warn you.” Norm Goldman, Bookpleasures/The Examiner 

More About the Book
“Author Avraham Azrieli wades into controversial waters with his fifth novel, "The Mormon Candidate." His main character, Ben Teller, is a photojournalist who, with his motorcycle has joined the Marine Corps Veterans' Annual Ride in Washington, D.C. when a terrible accident results in the death of one of the bikers. Suspicious by nature, he senses that Hinckley's death was not an accident. His investigation leads directly into the political nest of the man running for president of the United States, Joe Morgan, a successful businessman and active LDS member. Throughout the novel, details are revealed about the daily practices and social beliefs of members of the Mormon Church. A well-written page-turner, this is an entertaining novel.” Kel Kanady,Mercury News

You can also find Avraham Azrieli on Good Reads and Library Thing.
Special Price Cut E-book is now $2.99. Paperback is $13.49.


For the first mystery from Ritch Gaiti he has attained some excellent reviews on a socially significant mystery that is far more than a casual read. (Amazon 4.7 –23 reviews) 

Reviewer Comments
 “…masterfully conceived, dramatically atmospheric…Highly recommended.” Literary Aficionado “…a home run with fiction lovers… keeps the reader guessing until the very end.” Pacific Book Review


The book provides much needed insight into how to manage a long and successful career in the Information Technology field from an author who has spent twenty-four years working as an IT tech in many environments. 

Reviewer Comments
Being a go to Tech by Warren C. Zabloudil is a great how-to and self improvement that should be read by not only anyone going into the IT (information technology) field but any service-based career. Mr. Zabloudil uses a common sense approach pointing out the ins and outs that will make you the individual (or team leader) that everyone looks to when their computer systems are down. The book brings up several good points that we may have heard before but not in as clear and precise as Mr. Zabloudil puts it in this book. He points out how different types of attitudes can affect performance and steps that should be taken to change your outlook when going into a job or dealing with management. You will be shown the importance of listening, documenting, understanding, communication and time management. - J. Wallace 5 Star Amazon Review



In his debut novel for adults, bestselling MG/YA author Jeff Gunhus (known for his Jack Templar Monster Hunter books) has won outstanding reviews for his supernatural thriller which has drawn comparisons to Stephen King and Dean Koontz. Come see why this novel is consistently on the Amazon horror bestseller lists. 

More About The Book
Gunhus deliver a taut supernatural thriller...the powerful Nate Huckley terrifies, and the assorted cast of human antagonists add to the white-knuckle tension. All the chops of an action-packed horror tale. - Kirkus Reviews
Special Price Cut The book is now on sale for 99 cents. 


When Richard Corbett bought a modest flight school at the Modesto, California airport in 2007, he thought his dreams had come true. This from a man who’d made a career out of fulfilling his life’s admittedly lofty ambitions. 

More About The Book
Up, Up, and Away is an interesting story about a man who wanted to participate in free enterprise, and worked hard to make his business dreams a reality, but what he got instead was simply un-American. Running up against blatant corruption holding hands with Modesto government (no surprises there), Richard Corbett did all that he could to play by the rules. Unfortunately for him, the rules only apply to those who don't already have city officials in their pockets.

 Special Price Cut $9.99

Now that you've ready about these wonderful authors, make sure to place your vote today for a chance to win an iPad Mini from Reader Spoils!

Ready For Your Chance To Win?
Children Teaching Mama is excited to offer you a chance to win this amazing prize thanks to Reader Spoils
Enter To Win An iPad Mini
One winner will be chosen at random from all valid entries to receive a 16GB white iPad Mini valued at $339.99! 
To enter, complete the tasks on the Rafflecopter form below. 
Don't forget to vote for your favorite book AND come back for daily entries! 
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Open to U.S. Readers Only.
Ends on Sunday, September 15th at 11:59pm